Kangekiri

Kangekiri is a term originating from the Inuit language, referring to a type of ice formation. It specifically denotes a piece of ice that has broken off from a larger mass, such as a glacier or an iceberg, and is now drifting independently. These detached ice fragments can vary significantly in size, from small, pebble-like pieces to substantial chunks that could pose a hazard to shipping. The process by which kangekiri are formed is a natural part of glacial and ice sheet dynamics, driven by forces like melting, calving, and wave action.

The presence and movement of kangekiri are important indicators of changing ice conditions and ocean currents. In polar regions, their distribution and density are often monitored by scientists to understand the health of ice masses and the impact of climate change. While the term is primarily used in Arctic and Antarctic contexts, the phenomenon of broken ice drifting in water is universal. Therefore, kangekiri is a specific cultural and linguistic descriptor for a common natural occurrence in icy environments, emphasizing the Inuit peoples' close observation and understanding of their surroundings.